Coursen’s Corner

In this essential episode of Coursen’s Corner, Spencer Coursen shares actionable personal safety strategies for everyday life—from the smartest place to sit in a rideshare to elevator positioning and digital dangers facing today’s kids.

Learn practical tools to stay safe in high-risk environments, hear about recent trail attacks, and get a deep dive into how parents can raise more confident, resilient children in both the real and digital worlds. Whether you're traveling, parenting, or simply trying to stay prepared, this episode is packed with safety insights that could save lives.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 - 01:24] – Why your Uber seat choice could save your life

- [01:24 - 02:54] – The safest place to sit in a rideshare (and why)

- [02:56 - 04:10] – Elevator safety: positioning, awareness, and escape strategy

- [04:10 - 05:00] – What to do while waiting for an elevator

- [05:00 - 06:42] – TSA & Clear E-Gate updates: How it impacts your next flight

- [06:42 - 10:28] – Trail safety tips: 5 critical strategies to protect runners

- [10:28 - 12:00] – Why children need more than protection—they need preparation

- [12:00 - 14:00] – How to answer your child’s difficult questions with confidence

- [14:00 - 15:50] – Dangers of Roblox, AI chatbots & the digital world for kids

- [15:50 - 17:34] – Building resilience & confidence in kids through modeling behavior

Links & Resources:

Podcast Guest Submission Form: https://www.spencercoursen.com/guest-submission-form-podcast

Sign Up For Our Newsletter For Daily Life-Saving Safety Tips: https://spencer-coursen.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Follow Spencer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s.coursen/?hl=en

Purchase "The Safety Trap" by Spencer Coursen: https://a.co/d/3KXG4y2Connect With Coursen Security Group: https://www.coursensecuritygroup.com/

In this episode of Coursen’s Corner, Spencer Coursen sits down with Erika Schultz for a raw, deeply honest conversation on love, self-worth, and intuition. Erika shares her insights on modern relationships, the cultural programming that shapes gender roles, and the power of listening to your gut. From setting boundaries in love to breaking free from societal expectations, this episode offers transformative tools for self-empowerment. Erika also discusses religion, social media illusions, and what it means to be safe as a woman in today’s world.

Whether you're navigating dating, healing from heartbreak, or simply learning to put yourself first—this episode is your permission slip to take back your power.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 - 04:28] – Introduction and defining authentic connection

- [04:28 - 08:56] – Intuition vs insecurity in relationships

- [08:56 - 13:24] – How society teaches women to suppress instinct

- [13:24 - 17:00] – “You will know when a man wants to be with you”

- [17:00 - 21:28] – Signs of clarity and confusion in dating

- [21:28 - 25:56] – How men and women experience emotional availability differently

- [25:56 - 30:24] – Can someone grow with you or do they have to grow on their own?

- [30:24 - 35:56] – Breaking free from the fantasy of potential

- [35:56 - 39:50] – Learning to be your own emotional safe space

- [39:50 - 44:09] – “Men take care of their needs first” – discussing double standards

- [44:09 - 46:40] – Societal expectations placed on women to care for others

- [46:40 - 48:31] – Keeping your own cup full and trusting your instincts

-[48:31 - 53:44] – The importance of saying “no” to protect your peace

- [53:44 - 56:21] – Social media is a highlight reel: don’t compare your backstage to someone’s front stage

- [56:21 - 58:23] – How religion and upbringing influence our relationship choices

- [58:23 - 01:03:00] – “You have to be selfish to be selfless”

- [01:03:00 - 01:07:00] – Erika shares a time she didn’t feel safe- [01:07:00 - 01:10:27] – Final reflections and the healing power

of truth

Links & Resources:

Follow Erika on Instagram: @erikalynnrivera

Podcast Guest Submission Form: https://www.spencercoursen.com/guest-submission-form-podcast

Sign Up For Our Newsletter For Daily Life-Saving Safety Tips: https://spencer-coursen.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Follow Spencer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s.coursen/?hl=en

Purchase "The Safety Trap" by Spencer Coursen: https://a.co/d/3KXG4y2

Connect With Coursen Security Group: https://www.coursensecuritygroup.com/

This week on "Coursen’s Corner", Spencer Coursen is joined by indie artist Ciarara Elaine, who takes us deep into the making of her debut EP "Uncovered". From childhood piano playing to emotionally raw songwriting, Ciarara opens up about her journey, including what it means to be truly authentic in an industry that rewards perfection.

Together, they talk about:

- Writing songs from emotional wounds

- The realities of Nashville’s music scene

- Navigating burnout and parasocial fame

- Self-regulation and somatic tools for artists

- Creating sustainable careers on your own terms

Listen to Ciarara's debut EP Uncovered on Spotify and Apple Music.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/15gV8gIUFCiaDBPB6BxpIr?si=TXuQl-1sQAyttF3PM_3BAQ

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/ciarara/1809021291

Timestamps:

- [00:00 - 06:11] – Intro & first EP release emotions

- [06:11 - 12:22] – Creative confidence and raw artistry

- [12:22 - 18:33] – Musical roots and teaching herself piano & guitar

- [18:33 - 24:44] – Songwriting evolution and emotional depth

- [24:44 - 30:55] – Inspiration, the muse, and internal downloads

- [30:55 - 37:06] – Influences behind "Uncovered"

- [37:06 - 43:17] – Intentional track listing explained

- [43:17 - 49:29] – Performance burnout in Nashville

- [49:29 - 55:40] – Music as self-reflection & therapy

- [55:40 - 1:01:51] – Fame, the nervous system & safety

- [1:01:51 - 1:08:02] – Somatics, embodiment & regulation

- [1:08:02 - 1:14:13] – Relearning healing tools in real-time

- [1:14:13 - 1:20:24] – Creative sustainability & content fatigue

- [1:20:24 - 1:26:35] – Slowing down & redefining success

- [1:26:35 - 1:32:47] – Final takeaways: alignment over attention

Links & Resources:

Patreon: https://patreon.com/ciararacreates?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ciarara_creates/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ciarara_creates

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ciarara_creates

Podcast Guest Submission Form: https://www.spencercoursen.com/guest-submission-form-podcast

Sign Up For Our Newsletter For Daily Life-Saving Safety Tips: https://spencer-coursen.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Follow Spencer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s.coursen/?hl=en

Purchase "The Safety Trap" by Spencer Coursen: https://a.co/d/3KXG4y2

Connect With Coursen Security Group: https://www.coursensecuritygroup.com/

In this powerful episode of Coursen’s Corner, Spencer Coursen sits down with TEDx speaker and bestselling author Courtney Runyon, whose journey from neck-down paralysis to hiking 500 miles across Spain is nothing short of extraordinary. Together, they unpack the emotional, psychological, and physical aspects of healing—touching on relationships, identity loss, burnout, and redefining what it means to feel safe.

Courtney reveals how she transformed trauma into triumph, the difference between safety and security, and why resilient women often struggle with protecting themselves while excelling at protecting others. This conversation is a masterclass in somatic healing, nervous system regulation, and how to rewrite the story you tell about your life.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 - 04:28] – Opening reflections: relationships and health connection

- [04:28 - 08:56] – Courtney’s rare autoimmune diagnosis (CIDP)

- [08:56 - 13:24] – Resistance to medication & finding inner strength

- [13:24 - 17:52] – A breakup sparks physical recovery

- [17:52 - 22:24] – Self-sabotage in men and women: success, safety, stability

- [22:24 - 26:52] – Redefining security: it’s more than just physical

- [26:52 - 31:23] – Rehab, learning to walk again, and retraining the body

- [31:23 - 35:52] – Near-death relationship wake-up call

- [35:52 - 40:20] – Women and protection: confident for others, unsure for self

- [40:20 - 44:52] – Key lessons from facing death

- [44:52 - 49:56] – Somatic tools & mindset shifts for resilience

- [49:56 - 54:52] – The cost of chronic burnout

- [54:52 - 59:56] – Letting go of who you thought you had to be

- [59:56 - 01:05:00] – What is happiness? Redefining fulfillment

- [01:05:00 - 01:09:00] – “How you do one thing is how you do everything”

Links & Resources:

Visit Courtney's Website: https://www.courtneyrunyon.com/

Follow Courtney on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unicortlife

Follow Courtney on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unicortlife

https://www.linkedin.com/in/unicortlife/

Subscribe to Courtney's YouTube: https://youtube.com/@courtneyrunyonunicort

Follow Courtney on SubStack: https://substack.com/@unicortlife

Podcast Guest Submission Form: https://www.spencercoursen.com/guest-submission-form-podcast

Sign Up For Our Newsletter For Daily Life-Saving Safety Tips: https://spencer-coursen.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Follow Spencer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s.coursen/?hl=en

Purchase "The Safety Trap" by Spencer Coursen: https://a.co/d/3KXG4y2

Connect With Coursen Security Group: https://www.coursensecuritygroup.com/

In this episode of Coursen's Corner, Spencer Coursen sits down with Kristin Birdwell — author, creative coach, and advocate for radical authenticity — for a vulnerable and deeply moving conversation about shame, self-expression, and rewriting your story.

Kristin shares her personal evolution from being labeled a "prison girlfriend" to reclaiming her power through storytelling, sensuality, and self-acceptance. From the stigmas of sex work to the spiritual depths of erotic embodiment, this episode uncovers the layered complexity of feminine identity in today's world.

Listeners will walk away with a better understanding of how to confront judgment, embrace vulnerability, and courageously own their past as part of their power.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 - 04:28] – Spencer introduces Kristin Birdwell and the episode theme: telling your story without shame

- [04:28 - 08:56] – Kristin shares how a past relationship with a prisoner shaped her early identity

- [08:56 - 13:24] – Shame, society’s expectations, and the power of re-owning your story

- [13:24 - 17:52] – Sex work stigma, sensuality, and storytelling as a form of healing

- [17:52 - 22:20] – Erotic embodiment and moving from survival to self-expression

- [22:20 - 26:48] – How Kristin’s memoir came to life and the response it received

- [26:48 - 31:16] – What it means to "speak from the scar, not the wound"

- [31:16 - 35:44] – Blending the spiritual and sensual: embracing duality in womanhood

- [35:44 - 40:12] – Processing public perception and the risks of being visible online

- [40:12 - 44:40] – The creative process and building a coaching business from lived experience

- [44:40 - 49:08] – The role of curiosity and self-trust in breaking old narratives

- [49:08 - 53:36] – Kristin’s writing rituals and creative strategies

- [53:36 - 58:04] – Feminine energy, embodiment, and the reclamation of power

- [58:04 - 1:02:32] – What Kristin teaches her clients about sharing their truth

- [1:02:32 - 1:07:00] – Resistance to labels and why identity is fluid

- [1:07:00 - 1:11:28] – The intersection of sexuality and self-worth

- [1:11:28 - 1:15:00] – Shame, spirituality, and freedom from the “good girl” archetype

- [1:15:00 - 1:19:21] – Final thoughts: Kristin’s advice for owning your past and stepping into purpose

Links & Resources:

Follow Kristin Birdwell on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristinbirdwell_

Visit Kristin Birdwell's Website: https://www.kristinbirdwell.com/

Podcast Guest Submission Form: https://www.spencercoursen.com/guest-submission-form-podcast

Sign Up For Our Newsletter For Daily Life-Saving Safety Tips: https://spencer-coursen.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Follow Spencer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s.coursen/?hl=en

Purchase "The Safety Trap" by Spencer Coursen: https://a.co/d/3KXG4y2

Connect With Coursen Security Group: https://www.coursensecuritygroup.com/

In this solo episode of Coursen’s Corner, host Spencer Coursen dives deep into personal growth, entrepreneurship, therapy, and the discipline required to achieve success. Through a candid Q\&A mailbag, Spencer shares insights on nutrition, mental health, starting a business, and the ethos of “Work, Sweat, Win.” He also opens up about his upcoming book "Winning the War Within: My Journey from Trauma to Triumph", offering powerful lessons for anyone navigating self-doubt, entrepreneurship, or personal transformation.

This episode is packed with motivation, practical advice, and raw honesty — a must-listen for those seeking to grow stronger mentally, emotionally, and professionally.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 - 04:28] – Spencer introduces the episode, reflects on his podcast journey, and shares details about the new daily safety tip newsletter.

- [04:28 - 08:56] – Question 1: Favorite Sunlife shakes, protein intake goals, and why health routines matter.

- [08:56 - 12:26] – Question 2: Details about Spencer’s upcoming book "Winning the War Within" and its themes of trauma, healing, and resilience.

- [12:26 - 15:18] – Question 3: Advice for veterans and entrepreneurs starting a business — why passion, resilience, and sacrifice are essential.

- [15:18 - 18:03] – Question 4: Therapy, mindset shifts, and learning self-love and forgiveness as the foundation for success.

- [18:03 - 22:36] – Question 5: The story behind “Work, Sweat, Win” and why this ethos drives success.

- [22:36 - 28:42] – Question 6: Business leaders Spencer admires, avoiding the comparison trap, and building purpose-driven goals.

- [28:42 - 32:51] – Question 7: Non-negotiables for success — daily structure, intentional habits, and guaranteed moments of joy.

- [32:51 - 38:00] – Question 8: Current shows and movies Spencer recommends, including "Andor" and "The Bear".

- [38:00 - 42:32] – Question 9: The origins of the “Five Questions” series and why they foster authentic conversations.

- [42:32 - 47:35] – Question 10: Preparing for courtroom cross-examinations as an expert witness — staying calm, honest, and credible.

- [47:35 - 51:10] – Closing thoughts: Integrity, truth, and how to live a life of purpose while answering listener questions.

Links & Resources:

Podcast Guest Submission Form: https://www.spencercoursen.com/guest-submission-form-podcast

Sign Up For Our Newsletter For Daily Life-Saving Safety Tips: https://spencer-coursen.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Follow Spencer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s.coursen/?hl=en

Purchase "The Safety Trap" by Spencer Coursen: https://a.co/d/3KXG4y2

Connect With Coursen Security Group: https://www.coursensecuritygroup.com/

In this episode of Coursen’s Corner, Spencer Coursen sits down with entrepreneur Trevor Gibbs to talk about the challenges of balancing fatherhood, business, and self‑growth while building ManBar, a regenerative, US‑sourced nutrition brand. They dive into topics like overcoming burnout, protecting family and home, entrepreneurship in the health industry, and redefining success through resilience and communication. Trevor also shares raw personal stories about parenting, survival, and lessons learned through life’s most challenging moments.

This conversation blends business insights, personal development, and family protection strategies, making it a must‑listen for anyone looking to navigate modern life with authenticity and purpose.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 - 04:28] – Introduction & Trevor Gibbs on newborn challenges and NICU experiences

- [04:28 - 08:56] – Founding ManBar: creating a regenerative, U.S.-sourced product

- [08:56 - 13:24] – Why formulation matters: probiotics, high protein, and avoiding synthetic additives

- [13:24 - 18:52] – Entrepreneurship lessons: outsourcing, scaling, and knowing your audience

- [18:52 - 25:30] – Naming ManBar & branding challenges in a competitive market

- [25:30 - 35:10] – Navigating growth, KPIs, and staying true to customer demand

- [35:10 - 45:20] – Lessons from Star Wars’ “Andor” & business revolutions

- [45:20 - 55:40] – Protection, dogs, and a personal break‑in survival story

- [55:40 - 01:05:00] – Business, family, and security: blending personal life with entrepreneurship

- [01:05:00 - 01:15:20] – Five‑question finale: aliens, philosophy, and resilience mantras

Links & Resources:

Follow ManBar on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trymanbar/

Visit ManBar: https://trymanbar.com/

Podcast Guest Submission Form: https://www.spencercoursen.com/guest-submission-form-podcast

Sign Up For Our Newsletter For Daily Life-Saving Safety Tips: https://spencer-coursen.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Follow Spencer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s.coursen/?hl=en

Purchase "The Safety Trap" by Spencer Coursen: https://a.co/d/3KXG4y2

In this powerful episode of Coursen’s Corner, Spencer Coursen sits down with actor and writer Stephanie Schechter to discuss trauma, healing, and the misunderstood world of psychedelic therapy. Stephanie opens up about her own experience with a hero’s dose of MDMA, the long-tail effects of healing, and why confronting trauma means embracing the unknown. They explore the psychology behind predatory behavior, what bad actors really look like, and how storytelling can become a tool for transformation. The conversation also dives into strategies for solo female travelers, the dangers of glamorizing spiritual experiences, and why healing isn't linear. A must-listen for anyone interested in trauma recovery, personal growth, and the truth behind safety in our world.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 - 04:28] – Opening thoughts on healing and the challenge of letting go of pain

- [04:28 - 08:56] – Stephanie’s MDMA journey and mindset shift: "Tend to the part of the garden you can touch"

- [08:56 - 13:24] – The mistake of over-journeying and why integration matters more than the experience

- [13:24 - 18:52] – Admitting you need help and the stigma around "being okay not being okay"

- [18:52 - 24:20] – Story of the child abuser interview: how predators choose their victims

- [24:20 - 28:48] – "Bad people don’t look like villains" – the danger of cinematic stereotypes

- [28:48 - 33:16] – "I’m speaking from the scar, not the wound" – emotional readiness to share

- [33:16 - 38:44] – The writing process: truth, fiction, and personal growth through narrative

- [38:44 - 44:12] – Travel as therapy: Hemingway, experiences abroad, and shaping identity

- [44:12 - 49:40] – Female solo travel: tips for staying safe and empowered on the road

- [49:40 - 55:00] – Building emotional safety through boundaries, intuition, and self-respect

- [55:00 - 57:36] – Final reflections on healing, storytelling, and the power of self-awareness

Links & Resources:

Follow Stephanie on Instagram: @stephschechter_

Podcast Guest Submission Form: https://www.spencercoursen.com/guest-submission-form-podcast

Sign Up For Our Newsletter For Daily Life-Saving Safety Tips: https://spencer-coursen.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Follow Spencer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s.coursen/?hl=en

Purchase "The Safety Trap" by Spencer Coursen: https://a.co/d/3KXG4y2

Connect With Coursen Security Group: https://www.coursensecuritygroup.com/

In this episode of Coursen's Corner, comedian Colton Dowling joins Spencer Coursen for a deep, hilarious, and surprisingly insightful conversation on self-worth, comedy as emotional expression, and why humor is one of the most powerful tools for healing trauma. From dismantling negative self-talk on stage to exploring how past identities still shape us, this episode goes beyond laughs — into mental health, identity reinvention, and the art of saying hard things through humor. Colton also unpacks his journey into comedy, the dynamics of dark jokes, digital dating culture, and how creatives can keep innovating their material in an ever-changing world.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 - 04:28] – Opening banter, vulnerability in humor, and embracing flaws

- [04:28 - 08:56] – Defining comedy’s emotional role and its deeper human connection

- [08:56 - 13:24] – Impostor syndrome and creative insecurity

- [13:24 - 17:52] – Healing through humor and challenging shame

- [17:52 - 22:20] – Negative self-talk on stage and confronting identity

- [22:20 - 26:48] – Why old identities stick around and how to move forward

- [26:48 - 31:16] – Cruelty, honesty, and the art of delivering difficult truths

- [31:16 - 35:44] – Colton’s path into comedy and breaking into the scene

- [35:44 - 40:12] – Dark humor, digital culture, and “dick pic” dynamics

- [40:12 - 44:40] – Gender dynamics and performative sexuality in comedy

- [44:40 - 49:08] – Evolution of material and adapting to new ideas

- [49:08 - 53:36] – Comedy as therapy and emotional release

- [53:36 - 58:04] – Pressure to constantly create and stay relevant

- [58:04 - 1:02:32] – Creativity under time constraints and burnout recovery

- [1:02:32 - 1:07:59] – Colton’s mantra and personal resilience through comedy

- [1:07:59 - 1:12:30] – Dating, public perception, and comic relatability

- [1:12:30 - 1:15:18] – Final reflections and why laughter is more than escape

Links & Resources:

Follow Colton on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coltondowling/?hl=en

Visit Creek and Cave: https://www.instagram.com/creekandcave/?hl=en

Podcast Guest Submission Form: https://www.spencercoursen.com/guest-submission-form-podcast

Sign Up For Our Newsletter For Daily Life-Saving Safety Tips: https://spencer-coursen.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Follow Spencer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s.coursen/?hl=en

Purchase "The Safety Trap" by Spencer Coursen: https://a.co/d/3KXG4y2

Connect With Coursen Security Group: https://www.coursensecuritygroup.com/

In this powerful episode of Coursen’s Corner, host Spencer Coursen sits down with Katerina Schload to discuss the evolution of identity through marriage, motherhood, and professional transformation. From redefining success and navigating family dynamics to the importance of fitness, masculinity and femininity, and showing up for yourself — this episode delivers real, grounded advice on becoming who you're meant to be.

Whether you're in a transitional season, exploring self-worth beyond titles, or looking to find alignment in your daily life, this is a must-listen.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 - 04:28] – Intro to Katerina and the conversation setup

- [04:28 - 08:56] – The roles we inherit vs. the ones we create for ourselves

- [08:56 - 13:24] – Biggest lessons learned from marriage and self-awareness

- [13:24 - 17:52] – How adrenaline only takes you so far in long-term growth

- [17:52 - 22:20] – Why fitness is the one thing we can always control

- [22:20 - 26:48] – Perspective on showing up for yourself daily

- [26:48 - 31:16] – Parenting as an identity shift and empowerment experience

- [31:16 - 35:44] – The formula for adults pursuing new passions later in life

- [35:44 - 40:12] – Reframing what success looks like as a parent and professional

- [40:12 - 44:40] – Moving beyond performative hustle: redefining "hard work"

- [44:40 - 49:08] – Masculine vs. feminine energy needs in modern relationships

- [49:08 - 53:36] – “Hard work” doesn’t mean burnout: the American family dilemma

- [53:36 - 58:04] – Analogy for clarity: not knowing what you want vs. showing up anyway

- [58:04 - 01:02:32] – Emotional intelligence as a success metric

- [01:02:32 - 01:07:00] – Closing thoughts: why presence matters more than productivity

Links & Resources:

Follow Katerina on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katerinaschload/?hl=en

Book Your Austin Getaway: https://www.austinvacay.com/listings/297722?utm_campaign=button_list_StayattheDwellingofDivineDuality&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=later-linkinbio

Connect With Cr8Builders: https://www.cre8builders.com/contact-us

Visit Twelve Rivers Realty: https://twelveriversrealty.com/agent/katerina-schload/

Podcast Guest Submission Form: https://www.spencercoursen.com/guest-submission-form-podcast

Follow Spencer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s.coursen/?hl=en

Purchase "The Safety Trap" by Spencer Coursen: https://a.co/d/3KXG4y2

Connect With Coursen Security Group: https://www.coursensecuritygroup.com/